Many thanks to Mark Freeman of Rebel Records for sharing the fact that today is the 39th anniversary of the popular Virginia band, Big Country Bluegrass. Normally, we wait for nice, round-number commemoration years, but as today is the actual day of their launch, we figured, what the heck?
Thanks as well to Dale Morris, noted old time musician, and concert and festival MC, who wrote up this brief overview of the band’s almost four decade history.
Big Country Bluegrass celebrates their 39th year as a bluegrass group on January 7, 2026. Tommy and Teresa Sells of Grayson County, Virginia, formed the band in 1987, and their traditional sound has spread far and wide from its SW Virginia home since then.
Many fond memories have been made through the years. Recollections of playing bluegrass festivals and shows in many states – including playing the Grand Ole Opry back in 1999 when they won the Martha White theme contest; special memories of coon hunting with Jimmy Martin; spending a few days with Tom T. and Dixie Hall; becoming friends with Kyle Cantrell and many other radio DJs; and of course meeting hundreds of new bluegrass fans from across the country.
The group has recorded 21 projects during their 39 years, and the last six recordings have been on Rebel Records. They are most appreciative of their association with Rebel and their friendship with Mark and Dave Freeman. They have garnered five # 1 songs while with Rebel, and their current album, Carry Me Back to the Bluegrass, was released in 2025.
Big Country Bluegrass is still riding the bluegrass trail and are booking for 2026 and 2027.
The current group includes Tommy Sells on mandolin, Teresa Sells on guitar, Eddie Gill on guitar, Daniel Martin on banjo, and Tony King on bass.
Congratulations to Big Country Bluegrass on the big 39!
